The Convention People’s Party (CPP), the political embodiment of Kwame Nkrumah’s legacy, has expressed profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and his administration for the reinstatement of two historically significant holidays: July 1st as Republic Day and September 21st as Founder’s Day. This decision, achieved through legislative action by the Ninth Parliament, marks a significant victory for Nkrumahists worldwide and re-centers Ghana’s national narrative around the pivotal role of its founding father. The CPP’s statement, released on June 26, 2025, underscores the importance of these dates in Ghanaian history, linking them inextricably to Nkrumah’s vision and leadership. The timing of this reinstatement, just two weeks after the 76th anniversary of the CPP’s founding in Saltpond, adds a layer of symbolic resonance to the celebration.
July 1st, 1960, signifies Ghana’s transition from a parliamentary system under British colonial rule to a republic, with Nkrumah as its first president. This transformative moment marked the culmination of Nkrumah’s tireless efforts towards self-determination and solidified his place as a pioneering figure in African liberation movements. The restoration of July 1st as Republic Day acknowledges the profound impact of this transition, not just for Ghana but for the broader pan-Africanist movement it inspired. Similarly, recognizing September 21st, Nkrumah’s birthday, as Founder’s Day honors the man whose vision and leadership laid the foundation for modern Ghana. This date serves as a reminder of Nkrumah’s intellectual prowess, political acumen, and unwavering commitment to the principles of self-reliance, social justice, and pan-African unity.
The CPP views the reinstatement of these holidays as a corrective measure, rectifying what they perceive as a historical oversight. Previous administrations had attempted to diminish Nkrumah’s legacy by shifting these commemorative dates. The restoration, therefore, represents a symbolic return to historical accuracy and a reaffirmation of Nkrumah’s indelible mark on Ghana’s national identity. It signifies a renewed commitment to preserving the memory of his contributions, not only to Ghana’s independence and republican status but also to the broader struggle against colonialism and the promotion of Pan-Africanism. The CPP believes that these holidays should be observed as occasions for both celebration and reflection, providing an opportunity to contemplate the ideals upon which Ghana was founded and the ongoing pursuit of those ideals in contemporary society.
The reinstatement has been met with widespread acclaim from Nkrumahists and Pan-Africanists across the globe. They view this decision as a vindication of Nkrumah’s historical significance and a reaffirmation of Ghana’s founding principles. It underscores the enduring relevance of Nkrumah’s vision, particularly his emphasis on unity, self-determination, and economic independence for African nations. By restoring these holidays, Ghana not only honors its own history but also sends a powerful message to the international community about the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of transformative leaders in the struggle for liberation and social justice. This decision is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring that Nkrumah’s legacy continues to inspire generations to come.
The CPP’s expression of gratitude extends beyond the immediate act of reinstating the holidays. It highlights the deeper significance of this decision as a symbolic gesture of respect for Nkrumah’s contributions and a recognition of his enduring influence on Ghana’s political and social landscape. The reinstatement signifies a renewed commitment to upholding the principles of Nkrumaism and incorporating them into the nation’s ongoing development trajectory. It also underscores the importance of engaging with history honestly and comprehensively, acknowledging both the triumphs and challenges faced by the nation in its journey towards self-determination and progress.
The CPP’s statement concludes with a resounding affirmation of gratitude and a call for national unity. The party sees the restoration of these holidays as an opportunity to bridge divides and foster a shared sense of national identity rooted in the principles of Nkrumaism. It calls upon all Ghanaians to embrace the significance of these dates and to actively participate in the celebrations, using them as occasions to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and envision a future grounded in the values of social justice, economic empowerment, and pan-African solidarity. The reinstatement of Republic Day and Founder’s Day marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s historical narrative, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to honoring its founding father and embracing the enduring legacy of Kwame Nkrumah.
